IELTS WRITING TASK 2 - Success is often measured by wealth and material belongings. Do you think wealth is the best measure of success? What makes a successful person?

Question

Success is often measured by wealth and material belongings. Do you think wealth is the best measure of success? What makes a successful person?

Personal possessions are often viewed as proof of success. However, it is often argued that whether a successful person is a wealthy one or there are other indicators of being successful. From my perspective, besides wealth, other factors of success should include happiness, health, quality of relationships and contribution to society.

While a materialistic lifestyle is affordable due to large income, it is a fact that wealth is not equivalent to happiness. There are millionaires, billionaires throughout the world who admit that they are not really happy with their business achievements due to the fact that they feel exhausted and depressed about chasing money. To achieve a wealthy life, many people have to give up their hobbies, change their charismatic personalities or even threaten others' lives, which can cause depression, self-deception and guiltiness.

Furthermore, there are essential elements that contribute to a successful life such as health, quality of relationships. Although not having a large income, a person with good health conditions and long-standing social relationships can be viewed as being successful, unless they suffer an unstable financial status. In addition, contribution to society - known as how personal achievements affect social developments, is also considered an indicator of success.

In conclusion, wealthy life is not the only thing used to measure success as there are other essential factors. It is vital for a successful person to be happy, healthy, have lasting relationships and last but not least, to stop chasing money.